Thursday, September 17, 2015

Fall is Move-In Season for Squirrels!

squirrel home invasion.jpg
This little guy thinks he owns the house!

Move-In season for squirrels
Fall. The kids are back in school. The newly minted adults have all moved into their dorms or campus housing. But there’s somebody else who’s getting settled in right about now. If they haven’t yet, look out! There’s a pretty good chance they’ll be coming your way soon. Fall is move-in season for your friendly neighborhood squirrels, and oh, does your house look cozy!

Squirrel invasion very damaging
With the change in the weather, many neighborhood pests run scurrying for cover. Squirrels are among the most damaging. Because they are strong, agile, crafty, and determined, evidence of squirrel “remodels” is a frequent sight in home inspections. in addition to the usual hazard of urine trails and solid waste, shredded insulation and drywall, squirrels can pose a serious danger to your home’s exterior, roofing system, and HVAC systems. Squirrels love gnawing through wood. They also tend to be drawn to the sweetness of lead flanges and plumbing stacks, potentially resulting in a serious leaking problem down the road. Whether you are working to prepare your house for market, or simply wanting to protect your home investment, proactive measures are key.

Squirrel repellent
You can find several recipes for homemade squirrel repellent online. Apply the repellent to all areas the squirrels have invaded. Reapplication will necessary after a period of time. Better yet, contact your local pest management company for best results. The amount of time, money, and frustration you will save by preventing damage to your home and eliminating unnecessary repairs, will definitely be worth the investment.

Next, when you’re ready for your pre-market or pre-sale house inspection, give us a call at From the Ground Up Home Inspections. We will happy to answer all of your questions about your Middle Tennessee home inspection needs! To learn more about our services, prices or to schedule an appointment, call 615-241-6686.


For info on special offers & updates, click here:  http://www.homeinspectionsmurfreesborotn.com/

Friday, September 4, 2015

Carbon Monoxide & Other Combustion Pollutants in Your Home



Carbon Monoxide, Nitrogen Dioxide, -aldehydes & more
You may not be familiar with the term “Combustion Pollutant”. However, if you are a homeowner, chances are that you are familiar with Carbon Monoxide, and possibly some other common combustion pollutants. These and other gases and particles come from everyday appliances such as space heaters, ranges, ovens, stoves, furnaces, fireplaces, water heaters, and clothes dryers.

Issues Are Hard to Identify
Normally safe to operate, things like improper ventilation and appliance malfunction can create dangerous combustion pollutants that can not only cause damage to your health, but pose a serious life-threatening risk. Often, these issues are hard to identify and go unrecognized. That’s where a professional home inspector like From the Ground Up Inspections is needed.

In Case of Exposure
Get fresh air immediately if you believe you are experiencing Carbon Monoxide poisoning. Open windows and doors, turn off combustion appliances, and leave building. Remember, Carbon Monoxide poisoning can be fatal if you underreact or do nothing. Dizziness and sleepiness are among common side effects, and failure to act can cause you to lose consciousness, rendering you helpless. Once outside the building, contact your doctor immediately for checkup. Be sure to inform your doctor about your concerns. Swift medical attention is crucial.
 
Preventing Your Exposure to Combustion Pollutants
Choosing the right appliances for your needs, along with proper installation, inspection and maintenance goes a long way in reducing your exposure to these combustion pollutants. Good ventilation in your home and the correct use of appliances is important as well. Carbon Monoxide detectors placed outside each sleeping area of the home, on each level, and in the basement are an easy and inexpensive way to provide extra protection and peace of mind.

Prevention is always your first line of defense.
A trusted home inspection company can identify danger zones for combustion pollutants, and help you create an action plan to eliminate danger. At From the Ground Up Inspections, we are proud of our experience and reputation. Contact From the Ground Up Inspections for all your Middle Tennessee home inspection needs! To learn more about our services, prices or to schedule an appointment, call (615) 351-1922.


For info on special offers & updates, click here:  http://www.homeinspectionsmurfreesborotn.com/